20

                                    

                                          
"Happy Birthday, boo!" Harry sing-songed.
                          
Louis giggled and squealed. "It's my birfday! NiNi, it's my birfday!"
                          
"Happy birthday, baby boo!" Niall cheered and kissed his cheek. "Tanks, NiNi."
                          
"Hey, dad, can I talk to you real quick?"
                          
"I'll be right back." Harry told Louis and Zayn.
                          
"What is it, Nialler?" Harry asked when they were in the front hall.
                          
"What do I get Louis for his birthday?"
                          
"Either a toy or a book's okay. He and Zayn can share the toy."
                          
"Okay, bye, dad, love you."
                          
"I love you, too. Have a good day at school and don't forget Louis's present."
                          
Niall smiled and ran out the door when he heard the bus. "Bye, NiNi! Wuve you!"
                          
"I love you, too, booger."

                          
"Can I at least see him?"
                          
"He's at school, Liam, he won't be home for awhile."
                          
Liam had come to the house right after Harry dropped Louis off for school and had begged to see Louis. Harry had, of course, even tried slamming the door in his face. Now Liam was desperate. He just wanted to see his kids.
                          
"Well, can I at least stay here until he comes home?"
                          
"No. Why can't you stay at your hotel?"
                          
"Didn't pay the bill so they kicked me out."
                          
"Can't help you. You could stay at Josh's. You know, the freshman you cheated on me with our senior year."
                          
"Are you seriously still hung up on that? I told you I was sorry a million times. You married me, so you obviously forgave me."
                          
"Doesn't mean the sting and pain went away."
                          
"You're still hurting?"
                          
"I've always been hurting, Liam! I've been hiding it for years! And if we're being honest, did you even want Niall or Zayn or even Louis?"
                          
"Of course I did! What makes you think I don't or didn't?"
                          
"I can remember every time Louis or Niall wanted to hang out with you, you'd make up some excuse as to why you couldn't, then you'd storm out the door. And don't try to deny it, I know it's true."
                          
"Ugh! Fine! But I will be back later to see Louis and give him his present."
                          
"Don't count your blessings." Harry said and closed the door.
                          
Liam huffed and stormed off.